Hartford HealthCare is recognized by the Lymphatic Education & Research Network as one of four Centers of Excellence for Conservative Care in the world.
This designation is awarded to institutions like Hartford HealthCare whose program and team of therapists excel in knowledge and experience with lymphedema, providing outstanding quality care to patients with lymphedema. We look forward to partnering with you to manage your lymphedema.
What is Lymphedema?
The lymphatic system is a network of vessels that transports lymph, a protein-rich fluid, back to the blood. Lymphedema is a chronic swelling, due to an accumulation of this lymph fluid in the soft tissue. The buildup of stagnant fluid causes inflammation of the tissue, a mild to severe increase in limb girth, a decrease in tissue healing ability, and a high susceptibility to infections or cellulitis in the affected limb.
Lymphedema most often occurs in the arm or leg, but can also occur in the face, neck, abdomen, or genitals. Primary lymphedema is the result of missing or impaired lymphatic vessels; symptoms may develop at birth or later in life. Secondary lymphedema, a much more common type, is a result of lymph vessel damage or lymph node removal during surgery or radiation therapy. It may also occur after injury, scarring, trauma, or infection of the lymphatic system.
What causes lymphedema?
Lymphedema is caused when there is damage or blockage of the lymphatic system. This blockage can be caused by infection, cancer, scar tissue from radiation therapy, trauma or surgery, or surgical removal of the lymph nodes. Obesity, lack of movement, and venous disease are also common causes of lymphedema. Lymphedema occurs when the lymph vessels are no longer able to carry all of the lymph fluid out of the affected body part and the fluid builds up in the tissue, causing swelling and inflammation.
What are symptoms of lymphedema?
- Swelling
- Skin tightness
- Aching or discomfort
- Feeling of heaviness, fullness or fatigue in the impacted body part
- Restricted range of motion
- Hardening or thickening of the skin
A Comprehensive Lymphedema Treatment Program
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Download the Lymphedema Therapy Treatment Care Packet for patients
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Evaluation
Evaluation by a therapist includes:
- Complete medical history
- Sensory evaluation & pain assessment
- Range of motion and muscle testing
- Girth measurements
- Daily living and work requirements
Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD)
This manual technique reroutes lymph around blocked or damaged lymph nodes. The technique also reduces the susceptibility for infection, softens tissue, reduces edema, and improves the appearance and functional use of the extremity.
Compression Bandaging
Short stretch bandages are used to prevent the re-accumulation of evacuated lymph fluid and to break up deposits of accumulated scar and connective tissue. During the active phase of treatment, the bandages stay in place until the next MLD session begins. During the maintenance phase of therapy, the client is encouraged to wear the bandages while sleeping.
Exercise, Skin Care, and Infection Prevention
Clients may be taught a series of low exertion exercises and diaphragmatic breathing to stimulate lymphatic return. Training on skin care, infection recognition and response is also included.
Home Maintenance Instruction
Clients are instructed in self-bandaging, daily use of compression garments, and exercise for the maintenance phase of therapy. Clients are assisted in the purchase, care, and replacement of an appropriate compression garment. Regular follow up visits are scheduled to assess progress and to initiate compression garment replacement.
Our Lymphedema Support Group explores the emotional impact and provides positive coping strategies for managing lymphedema for patients and their families. Learn more >>